In the recipient's own humble words, regarding recent exams in preparation for A-levels: "I would like to personally thank you [the LFU] again and promise that I will do my best not to let you wonderful people down. It however will not be easy and I do hope that you all are not disappointed with the results come September." (May 6, 2003)

LFU Scholarship recipient - Ms. Yonnette WaltonParaphrasing the May 5, 2003 article in the Guyana Chronicle by Joe Chapman... Mackenzie High School's top student Yonnette Walton, who established a new school record by gaining 9 subjects with Grade 1 at last year's CXC Examinations, (the equivalent to 9 A at O-levels) has been honored for her outstanding achievement by the Linden Fund, USA. Ms Walton will receive a total of G$ 240,000 over a 2 year period to assist in her A-level studies at the school, in addition to covering expenses such as transportation and books.

Dr. Vincent Adams, Chairman of the Linden Fund, USA, who was in Guyana in to make the announcement said, "It shows that Linden still has the talent that cries out for, and deserves our help and encouragement." According to Adams, "the amazing thing about this young lady is that she chose to stay at MHS to do her A-level examinations and that is very impressive." He noted that most students would have wanted to get away from their parents, get out of the community and be in the bright city, but Ms Walton chose to do her work at home.

The Chairman, himself a past student of MHS, recalled that in his time at school there were a lot of smart kids, but recognized Walton's achievement as "exceptional." He said that, based on school statistics, Ms Walton's results are the best ever recorded at MHS. Dr. Adams said the amount offered to Ms Walton may increase based on her additional needs. He also noted that because of the stunning accomplishment, LFU plans on making this an annual award to students with outstanding CXC records who wish to pursue A-level studies or its equivalent. Among those present at the scholarship announcement were Linden Fund -Guyana Secretary, Jenny George-Parkinson, Board member Abdul Kadir and Janice Gibson, Headmistress of MHS. Gibson expressed her gratitude to LFU for recognizing and rewarding the effort of Walton and noted that such gestures will serve to encourage outstanding performances from other students, not only at MHS, but from other schools in Linden.

 

 

 

 

 

 

At Linden Fund presentation to Yonette Walton of MHS. From left: Abdul Kadir,
Ms. Gibson, Ms. Walton , Dr. Adams and Ms. Jenny George Parkinson